- 2.1 Essential Education
- 2.2 Skills required
- 2.3 Economic and career prospects
- 2.4 Training Options For Computer Repair Technicians
- 2.5 What will I learn?
- 2.6 Get Certified
- 2.7 Typical job duties
- 3.1 IT Support Specialist:
- 3.2 Network Administrator:
- 3.3 Cybersecurity Analyst:
- 3.4 Technical Trainer or Educator:
- 3.5 Freelance IT Consultant:
- 3.6 Hardware Development and Testing:
- 3.7 Data Recovery Specialist:
What is a computer repair technician?
This role covers the business of telecommunication equipment installer and repairer, working to improve the transmission of communication signals provided by devices located in offices and homes. Computer repair technicians focus on troubleshooting equipment, installing correct routing signals, reloading faulty cables, updating technology, and testing new software. These technicians are also responsible for detecting and repairing computer repair technician salaries and replacing or repairing parts.
Requirements For Becoming A Computer Repair Technician –
Essential Education
Common educational requirements for a career as a PC technician include an associate’s degree or certificate of completion from a vocational school. Some students complete computer science degree programs, offered by many universities and colleges. Some of the courses offered in these programs include computer technology courses, electrical systems design, and systems management courses.
Skills required
PC technicians are expected to have good computer skills and good human skills to be able to make calls to the messaging service. PC technicians must be proficient in managing the use of hardware and software. Specifically, they need to understand how personal computer systems interact with each other. They should also be able to repair other parts of the computer system, such as printers, modems, and other ancillary equipment.
Economic and career prospects
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 2% decline for computer repairers, but faster-than-average employment growth of 11% for IT support specialists from 2016 to 2026. The need for computer-assisted technicians will continue to ‘The growth of computer use will increase over the next few decades. Data collected by BLS shows that the average wage for computer repairers,
automakers, and office equipment in May 2017 was $ 18.13 per hour or $ 37,710 per year. Computer support specialists earned an average salary of $ 52,810 in the same period, according to BLS.
Training Options For Computer Repair Technicians
You can sign up for a certified repair or repair program and computer support. Some schools offer certification programs that can prepare you for a CompTIA A + certification, designed for IT support technicians. Most certification programs take around six months to complete; some can take up to a year.
Because knowledge of electronics is essential to becoming a computer repair technician, you might consider enrolling in an associate degree program in electronics or electronics and computer technology. Before applying to one of these programs, you must ensure that the program adequately covers the topics of computer repair; some associate programs only include 1-2 courses related to computer repair. You can usually earn a partner degree after two years of study.
What will I learn?
In a computer repair certificate program, you will learn the basics of operating systems and system hardware. The lab courses will give you practical training in computer repair. You can explore computer architecture, which is crucial to understanding how computers work and how they can be repaired. You will also learn how to remove and replace parts, troubleshoot error messages, and run analytics on software programs to detect system and hardware failures.
Associated programs in electronics and computer technology often include courses in electrical and circuit control systems. General education courses such as initial communication or composition in English are usually required. Like certificate programs, you will discuss computer repair topics such as computer architecture, computer troubleshooting, and computer hardware.
Get Certified
You can gain CompTIA A + designation by taking a certification exam. CompTIA tests can be performed at Pearson VUE and Prometric testing centers. You will need to recertify every three years by taking an updated exam or by participating in CompTIA’s continuing education program. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), certification shows employers that you are well-versed in computer repair which can lead to more job opportunities. Thus, a CompTIA certification can further improve your chances of getting hired.
Typical job duties
Computer repair technicians install and repair computer systems as well as components of the computer system. The BLS notes that technicians replace some computer parts more often than they repair them; Some parts cannot be repaired and customers may not have time to wait for repairs to be made. Parts that can be replaced include video cards, hard drives, and network cards.
What are some related alternative careers?
IT Support Specialist:
Transitioning to an IT support role is a natural step for computer repair technicians. IT support specialists assist users with technical issues, provide guidance on software and hardware usage, and troubleshoot network problems. This role often involves working with a variety of systems, offering a broader scope than traditional computer repair.
Network Administrator:
For those with a keen interest in networking, becoming a network administrator can be a rewarding move. Network administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining an organization’s computer networks, ensuring connectivity, security, and optimal performance. This role involves configuring routers, switches, and other network devices, making it a logical progression for computer repair technicians with a focus on connectivity.
Cybersecurity Analyst:
As the importance of cybersecurity continues to grow, computer repair technicians can pivot towards becoming cybersecurity analysts. These professionals are tasked with protecting an organization’s systems and data from cyber threats. Skills in identifying vulnerabilities and implementing security measures can be honed, ensuring a valuable contribution to the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity.
Technical Trainer or Educator:
Sharing your knowledge and expertise can be a fulfilling career choice. Transitioning to a role as a technical trainer or educator allows you to teach others about computer repair, troubleshooting techniques, and technology advancements. This path can lead to positions in schools, training centers, or even online education platforms.
Freelance IT Consultant:
Becoming a freelance IT consultant provides the flexibility to choose your projects and clients. Offering services such as system optimization, network setup, or cybersecurity assessments can be lucrative. Freelancers can enjoy a varied workload and the opportunity to work with different industries and businesses.
Hardware Development and Testing:
Transitioning into hardware development and testing allows computer repair technicians to leverage their understanding of computer components. Working with technology companies to develop and test new hardware can be an exciting and challenging career path.
Data Recovery Specialist:
Specializing in data recovery can be a niche but valuable career option. As a data recovery specialist, you can help individuals and businesses retrieve lost or corrupted data, whether due to hardware failure or accidental deletion. This role requires in-depth knowledge of storage systems and recovery tools.
Conclusion:
While a career as a computer repair technician is rewarding, exploring alternative paths can open doors to new challenges and opportunities. Whether you choose to specialize in cybersecurity, network administration, or transition to a teaching role, your skills as a computer repair technician can be a strong foundation for a successful and dynamic career in the ever-evolving field of technology. Keep in mind that continuous learning and staying abreast of industry trends will be essential as you embark on a new professional journey.